USA: State Agriculture Commissioner announces recall of fish sausage

State Agriculture Commissioner Nathan L. Rudgers today announced the recall of Fish Sausage in plastic casings, which is sold in 7.6 ounce packages. The product could be tainted with Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria that causes botulism. The product is coded on the reverse side of the package, "BEST BEFORE 06.07.2001." Anyone possessing this product is urged to discard it or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. The product, which is packed in Hong Kong, is being recalled by Aji Ichiban LLC, an importer and retail store in New York City. According to the company, the product was sold only at their 167 Hester Street retail store. Placards alerting customers of this matter have been posted at the store in both English and Chinese. New York State Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors are evaluating other codes and package sizes of the product. The recall follows a routine sampling in the Hester Street store by food safety inspectors from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. Laboratory analysis found pH (acidity), salt and water activity levels in the product, which could permit Clostridium botulinum to develop and produce the toxin which can result in botulism if consumed. There have been no reported illnesses associated with this product according to Department officials. Symptoms of botulism, which can be fatal, include blurred or double vision, general weakness, poor reflexes, difficulty swallowing and respiratory distress. Symptoms usually appear between 12-36 hours after ingestion, but may take several days. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.